Body of Work

BEGUILING BEGINNINGS IS ENDLESSLY INGENIOUS
(excerpt)
May 9, 1997, Ivan Lincoln, Deseret News

Spread across eight scenes—seven of them connected by two tiger puppets (opinionated Uncle Lincoln and his nephew, Kit)—this ingeniously crafted work brings a cross-section of ancient myths, fables and folklore to life on Aardvark's tiny stage.

The tigers are out on a camping trip.   The uncle pooh-poohs Kit's steadfast belief in biblical stories and whiles away the night in the woods telling him a variety of colorful ethnic and mythical legends—all linked to various "beginnings."

While Beginnings is obviously not suited to all tastes, it's a fascinating glimpse into the diversity in our multicultural world. Youngsters will get a big kick out of the playful friendship between Uncle Lincoln and curious Kit, while more mature audience members will tap into the various messages.

One of the messages Uncle Lincoln tries to impress upon Kit: "Turn off the Nintendo, kid, and start using your imagination!"